India has signed an Agreement on Social Security relating to Social Security Contributions with the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland in New Delhi, marking an important step in strengthening bilateral cooperation.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the agreement aims to prevent double social security contributions for employees of both countries who are on temporary assignments in each other’s territory for up to 36 months. This means professionals working abroad for a short duration will continue contributing to their home country’s social security system, without being required to pay in both nations.
The pact is expected to significantly benefit Indian professionals working in sectors such as IT, finance, engineering, and consulting in the UK, while also supporting British employees posted to India. By reducing compliance costs and financial burden, the agreement will make overseas assignments more practical and cost-effective.
The social security agreement forms part of India’s broader trade framework with the UK and will come into effect alongside the Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA) once operational.
During the meeting, both sides reviewed the growing momentum in bilateral relations and explored ways to deepen cooperation, particularly through enhanced people-to-people exchanges. They also discussed regional and global developments, along with key multilateral issues.